Reigning Method E champion Pascal Wehrlein has downplayed the significance of qualifying at this weekend’s Sao Paulo E-Prix, suggesting that the race might be one other instance of the so-called “peloton-style” racing.
With new tires that present extra grip however degrade extra, together with the addition of four-wheel-drive for Assault Mode, the complexion of races may change this season, however the TAG Heuer Porsche driver isn’t anticipating an enormous change in that regard.
“(Qualifying is) not essential,” he stated within the pre-race press convention. “It’s a very good instance right here of the peloton model racing, this observe could be very power delicate so qualifying will not be essential other than taking three factors in the event you can.”
Elaborating to RACER, Wehrlein stated that Assault Mode – which can give drivers a short lived energy increase together with energy to all 4 wheels – will provide one thing completely different, however in any other case races will stay acquainted as drivers preserve power for an enormous remaining push. Final season’s Sao Paulo winner, Sam Chook, began sixth on the grid and took the lead within the remaining sequence of corners on the final lap, whereas Wehrlein began from pole however finally ended up fourth within the race.
“I believe will probably be fairly related,” he stated. “I believe the dynamic, particularly taking the Assault Mode, might be a bit completely different as a result of now it’s actually to assault and overtake. The advantage of Assault Mode and four-wheel drive is sort of big — that may change the dynamic a bit, however in any other case it’ll be fairly related.
“The four-wheel drive as a result of not everybody could have four-wheel drive for the total race. With the tires I believe we’re all on the identical web page. If the tire is giving up and begins to collapse, everybody will wrestle with the tires, however with the four-wheel drive, not everybody could have it.”
